Philadelphia Power Couple Honored for Revitalizing Gayborhood
A partnership that has spanned over two decades has transformed the once-neglected Gayborhood into a thriving hub of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Marcie Turney, 55, and her wife Valerie Safran, 50, have been instrumental in redeveloping the neighborhood, starting with the whimsical boutique Open House 23 years ago.
The couple's hospitality company, Safran Turney Hospitality, now represents several popular destinations in Midtown Village, including Bud & Marilyn's, Barbuzzo, Darling Jack's Tavern, and Little Nonna's. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, as they've been featured in Out Magazine's prestigious Out100 edition, recognizing them as top innovators within the LGBTQ+ community.
Turney and Safran's commitment to creating a welcoming space is evident in their restaurants' focus on providing comfort and enjoyment to customers. "We don't just serve cuisine," Turney said, "we provide moments that make people smile." The couple's vision has paid off, with eight businesses and two adopted daughters now calling the Gayborhood home.
The transformation of the neighborhood wasn't overnight. When Turney and Safran first started dating in 2001, they were met with a desolate landscape – just two retail spaces on the block. "We'd go out and the block was like the red light district," Turney recalled. However, the community soon warmed up to them, embracing their presence.
Despite initial doubts about why they're being recognized, Turney said it's a testament to the power of partnership and support within the LGBTQ+ community. The couple's next venture, Red Gravy Goods, is set to open on East Passyunk Avenue by the end of the year, promising more custom-designed Philly-themed knick-knacks.
While Out100's annual event in Hollywood honors their achievements, Turney and Safran remain focused on raising their daughters, aged 7 and 2. "We're just stuck in motherhood," Turney said with a laugh.
A partnership that has spanned over two decades has transformed the once-neglected Gayborhood into a thriving hub of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Marcie Turney, 55, and her wife Valerie Safran, 50, have been instrumental in redeveloping the neighborhood, starting with the whimsical boutique Open House 23 years ago.
The couple's hospitality company, Safran Turney Hospitality, now represents several popular destinations in Midtown Village, including Bud & Marilyn's, Barbuzzo, Darling Jack's Tavern, and Little Nonna's. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, as they've been featured in Out Magazine's prestigious Out100 edition, recognizing them as top innovators within the LGBTQ+ community.
Turney and Safran's commitment to creating a welcoming space is evident in their restaurants' focus on providing comfort and enjoyment to customers. "We don't just serve cuisine," Turney said, "we provide moments that make people smile." The couple's vision has paid off, with eight businesses and two adopted daughters now calling the Gayborhood home.
The transformation of the neighborhood wasn't overnight. When Turney and Safran first started dating in 2001, they were met with a desolate landscape – just two retail spaces on the block. "We'd go out and the block was like the red light district," Turney recalled. However, the community soon warmed up to them, embracing their presence.
Despite initial doubts about why they're being recognized, Turney said it's a testament to the power of partnership and support within the LGBTQ+ community. The couple's next venture, Red Gravy Goods, is set to open on East Passyunk Avenue by the end of the year, promising more custom-designed Philly-themed knick-knacks.
While Out100's annual event in Hollywood honors their achievements, Turney and Safran remain focused on raising their daughters, aged 7 and 2. "We're just stuck in motherhood," Turney said with a laugh.
they deserve it so much!! i mean can u even imagine the gayborhood back then? 
like a total disaster 
Marcie & Valerie have done an amazing job revamping the whole area into this beautiful, welcoming space 
I'm so hyped for their new venture Red Gravy Goods too!!! 
custom Philly-themed knick-knacks? yes please! 
they deserve it so much 
after all the hard work they put into reviving that neighborhood! 
now there are so many cool spots to hang out and eat 
especially with their adorable daughters 
love seeing strong couples like them rocking the power couple vibe 
can't wait for their new shop Red Gravy Goods! 
!
, but at the same time, I'm thinkin' maybe it's just another example of gentrification 
, where they're displacin' long-time residents to make way for their fancy restaurants & shops. And don't even get me started on whether or not they're really "helping" the community by bringin' in more $$$ 
vs. actually doin' somethin' meaningful to support the locals 
.
, but is it just a way to justify their wealth & privilege? And what about all those initial doubts they faced when they first started out? That's some kinda cool underdog story 
, right? I'm not sure if I believe the whole "we're just stuck in motherhood" thing either 
... are they tryin' too hard to play it down or somethin'?
. I mean, don't get me wrong, Marcie and Valerie are lovely and all, but the fact that they're getting this recognition is kinda... basic? I mean, can't we just give it to them for being normal humans who care about their community instead of making a big production out of it?
.
. That's some good karma right there. But seriously, can we talk about how the Gayborhood is just getting more and more gentrified? It's like, I get that Marcie and Valerie are trying to revitalize it, but isn't it time for some new faces around here?
. Red Gravy Goods is opening soon? Like, what even is that? More tacky knick-knacks for tourists no doubt 
. Can we just have a real community center or something instead of this "custom-designed Philly-themed" nonsense?
. They didn't do it for recognition, they did it because they genuinely cared about creating something beautiful – and now we get to reap the benefits 
! Their partnership reminds us that true strength lies in support and embracing our differences 
It's about time we recognize the power of love & acceptance in creating positive change! Turney & Safran are total legends, and I'm not just saying that 'cause they're cute 
. But seriously, it's amazing to see how far their partnership has come, and I'm so hyped for Red Gravy Goods – custom Philly-themed knick-knacks? 
As parents, we know that life can get crazy, but Marcie & Valerie's partnership is proof that with love, support, and determination, anything is possible 
I think it's amazing that Marcie and Valerie have been able to transform the Gayborhood into a thriving community, especially considering how much they've been through for their relationship. It's not always easy being part of the LGBTQ+ community, but they're showing everyone that love is love, no matter what 
The fact that they're putting so much love into creating a welcoming space for everyone is truly inspiring.
. I'm excited to see what Red Gravy Goods brings to the table (literally!) and support these amazing women in any way I can! 
. It's amazing how far they've come from being met with doubts when they first started dating 
. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to visit a Gayborhood with all those cute restaurants and shops? 
. And you know what's even more beautiful? How their vision has created a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same. It just goes to show that our individual contributions can collectively make a massive difference in shaping the world around us 
i mean who dont love Barbuzzo or Darling Jack's Tavern ? 
their hospitality co Safran Turney Hospitality is literally changing th game 
. Seriously though, Marcie and Valerie's 20+ year partnership is a testament to the power of love and community. It's about time we recognized their hard work and commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Now, let's talk about the importance of supporting local businesses and LGBTQ+ initiatives – it's a matter of equality and human rights 
and the new store is gonna have Philly-themed knick-knacks 
. It warms my heart to see their partnership thrive